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by Cassandra Romanowski, KTA Intern
It’s hunting season here in Pennsylvania, as in many other places, and that means it’s time to break out the fluorescent orange vests and hats every time we take to the trails or woods. Here are a few safety reminders for any activity that gets you out in the woods this time of year.
- Make yourself seen. Avoid wearing any brown, tan, or especially white. A flash of white may be mistaken for the white of a deer’s tail. Wear blaze-orange clothing that is visible from all directions. For instance, an orange cap or orange vest will encircle the wearer in color. If you pass through state game lands, it is required for all hunters and non-hunters to wear at least 250 square inches of fluorescent orange material on the head, chest, and back combined, from November 15th to December 15th (except Sundays). If you hike with your dog, please follow the same precautions for your canine companion. Since hiker activity increases during low visibility periods of dawn and dusk, a reflective vest is suggested.
- Make yourself heard. Although you may normally opt for quietness on the trails, now is the time to tread loudly. You needn’t be excessively loud, but keep up a steady conversation with your partner. If you’re alone, you can whistle or sing to make yourself heard, or consider a bell on yourself and/ or your dog.
- Be aware. Hunters are active from early dawn to dusk and all times in between. Expect that you can meet hunters anywhere, at any time. Skip the bushwhacking (especially in state game lands) during popular hunting seasons, and try to stick to marked and maintained trails.
- Know the rules. Hunting is not permitted on Sundays in Pennsylvania, so this would be the safest day to venture on to the trails. Refer to your guidebook or check online to see if any special rules apply to your local trail during hunting season, or consider opting for a trail that prohibits hunting.
- Avoid hunter interference. Hikers should be aware that interference or harassment of hunters in the lawful pursuit of game is a violation of Pennsylvania law. This includes interference or tampering with dogs used in the pursuit of game where allowed by law. Sportsmen are our partners in conservation—encounters between hunters and hikers are opportunities to raise the awareness of both groups.
Above all, use common sense and do your part to share the woods safely. Hunters and hikers both have the right to pursue their chosen outdoor recreation safely. Respect each other and the land we share.
Click here for the 2012-2013 hunting seasons, listed on the Pennsylvania Game Commission's website.
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